Israeli military officials confirmed Thursday that a 19-year-old soldier lost his life during combat operations in southern Lebanon when Hezbollah forces launched a deadly drone attack.
The fallen soldier, Sergeant Liam Ben Hamo, served with the Golani Brigade’s Battalion 13 when the fatal strike occurred. A second Israeli Defense Forces member sustained moderate injuries in the same incident and was transported to a medical facility for care.
In a separate attack earlier Thursday, military officials reported that a dozen soldiers were hurt when an explosive drone targeted forces in northern Israel. Two of those injured suffered moderate wounds while ten others received minor injuries.
Military sources revealed that Hezbollah operatives deployed two explosive drones against the 7th Brigade combat team stationed in the Qantara region. While one drone detonated near the troops, Israeli forces successfully intercepted and destroyed the second device.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences, stating: “Together with all the citizens of Israel, my wife and I mourn the fall of Golani fighter Sgt. Liam Ben Hamo, who was killed in combat in southern Lebanon.” Netanyahu emphasized that “Liam fought bravely and courageously against the Hezbollah terrorist organization in order to protect the security of Israel.”
Defense Minister Israel Katz also offered his sympathies, saying: “On behalf of the entire defense establishment, I send heartfelt condolences to his dear family, embrace you in this difficult hour, and wish a speedy recovery to all our heroic soldiers who were wounded.”
According to reports from Walla news, a security official indicated that Katz is weighing potential retaliation measures against Hezbollah while diplomatic discussions between Lebanon and Israel remain active. Israeli Air Force units responded by targeting Hezbollah facilities across southern Lebanon, focusing on communities where drone launches against Israeli personnel and territory originated.
